Severe Sandstorm in Iraq Closes Airports, over 3,700 Hospitalized
A severe sandstorm swept across central and southern Iraq on April 14, 2025, blanketing cities in thick orange dust, reducing visibility to less than a kilometer, and forcing the closure of Basra and Najaf airports. The storm led to over 3,700 hospital admissions due to respiratory issues, with Basra being the hardest hit as residents ventured out wearing masks. At the same time, the health ministry also warned of increasing dust storms in the future due to climate change.
